Sardus Pater

'...Sadus Pater, a cooperative located on the Sant'Antioco islands, just off the southwest coast of Sardinia. The winery was founded in 1949 and today counts over 300 members. Consulting oenologist Riccado Cotarella oversees winemaking. His approach is often very much felt in the wines, yet I often get a sense that with a lighter touch in the cellar and a more transparent expression of varietal and terroir these wines might very well reach a higher level. The raw materials certianly seem to be available, as the estate's top reds are made from ancient, pre-phylloxera vineyards. This a beautiful set of wines from an emerging property readers should keep an eye on. ANTONIO GALLONI